SPARTA - Angela “Angie” Mary Halverson (Woods), of Sparta, Wisconsin, died November 1, 2026, at the age of 98, at Morrow Memorial Home in Sparta.
She was born September 15, 1928, in New Albin, Iowa, to Alexander and Magdalena “Lena” (Kraock) and was the youngest of five daughters. On December 28, 1948, she married Robert “Bob” Halverson, beginning a marriage that spanned nearly 78 years.
Angie grew up in Prairie du Chien and graduated from high school there. After their three sons were born, she and Bob made Sparta their home, where she devoted herself to raising their family. She later worked at Arentz Shoes in Sparta, where she enjoyed both the work and the chance to indulge her interest in fashion. Angie valued connection. She treasured her lifelong friendships in Prairie du Chien, and together she and Bob formed many lasting friendships in Sparta. She also remained close to her sisters despite the distance between their homes. All three sons eventually made their homes in Sparta, allowing Angie and Bob to share in their sons’ families’ everyday lives.
Angie loved time with family, whether piling grandchildren into Bob’s old Ford Bronco for the flavor of the day at the Tastee Treat, heading to a supper club on Friday night, or gathering around the kitchen table for conversation. Adult family members visiting their home were always offered a beer or a glass of Chardonnay. She loved to have the grandkids sleep over; Bob made popcorn and Angie brought out ice cream. Her baking provided its own entertainment: ingredient substitutions made her cookies unpredictable and gave the family plenty to tease her about. She listened closely, remembered the small things, and made people feel heard. Her quick wit, touch of sarcasm, and easy laughter could lighten any moment. When things felt beyond anyone’s control, she’d simply say, “So be it.” Despite the efforts of many, Angie never wanted to learn to drive, another favorite subject of family teasing. She was happy to leave the driving to Bob, enjoying their trips to the mall in La Crosse and the time they spent together along the way. As they grew older, they still enjoyed drives all over town.
Angie’s Catholic faith was central to her life. She and Bob never missed Mass and often spoke of how blessed they were, grateful for their family, their life together, and the everyday moments they shared. As Bob says, “She was a lady.” She kept a tidy home, dressed with care, and enjoyed weekly shopping trips to refine her style and decorate her house—many sought her out for her fashion advice. She loved all dogs and had a particular fondness for Boston terriers. For many years, she walked four miles a day. She loved being outside, and even as her routines slowed, neighbors often saw her waving from her front porch. Big-band music or Lawrence Welk often played as she tapped her feet and sang along. It wasn’t unusual for Angie and Bob to get up and dance together, something they did beautifully. She read constantly and shared her love of books with her family.
Angie is survived by her husband, Robert “Bob” Halverson Sr.; their three sons, Robert “Bob” Halverson Jr. (Barb), Gary Halverson (Peggy), and Mark Halverson (Denise), all of Sparta, Wisconsin; seven grandchildren, Lisa Misco (Chad) of Lena, Wisconsin, Sara Shingler (Paul) of Peachtree Corners, GA, Christopher Halverson (Angela) of Sparta, Wisconsin, Angela “Angie” Brandl (Cory) of Holmen, Wisconsin, Natalie Kuklinski (Aaron) of Lakeville, Minnesota, Nicole Shimak (Josh) of Sparta, Wisconsin, and Nina Swanson (Trevor) of Holmen, Wisconsin; 17 great-grandchildren; and extended family, including nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Alexander and Lena Woods and her four sisters, Arvella Bowlen, Dorothy Rolph, Mary Patterson, and Loretta Rod. Throughout her 98 years, Angie cherished many relatives and dear friends who preceded her in death.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, November 9, 2026 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Sparta, with Father Eric Berns officiating. Burial will be at a later date, in St. Pat’s Cemetery, Sparta.
A visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until 11 am. on Monday, at the church.
Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com. Memorials may be offered to The Sparta Free Library.
Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, is assisting the family with arrangements.
Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation
